Q: Where do I start?
A: Putting like things together in 10-15 minute increments to start. (Example: one drawer)
Q: How do I make a decision?
A: Prioritize!
Q: How many piles do I make?
A:
- One to keep
- One to throw away
- One for others to enjoy or donate
- One to recycle / for consignment / for yard sale
- One to put in a labeled box and revisit in one year (if needed)
Q: What is the vision and purpose for the life and the home I want?
A: Continue to ask that question while going through possessions and/or when considering buying (even if on sale). How does it fit in?
Q: How long do I have to keep records?
A: Please review the following website:www.personalorganizing.about.com
Q: What records do I keep forever?
A: Diplomas, academic records, portfolio work, and adoption papers. Check with www.irs.gov for more information.
Q: How do I stay organized?
A: Go through the mail and discard daily.
Remember your place for stuff and visit daily.
Reinforce organizing by handling items daily.
Q: What are good organizing tools?
A:
- smart phones
- Post-its
- baggies
- rubber bands
- markers, labels, and adhesive chalk labels
- ever notes
- drawer dividers/clear containers/folders
- key racks/bulletin boards
Q: Why get organized?
A: Less stress, guilt and better time management with a place for everything.
Q: How much is your clutter costing you to keep?
A: The answer is a challenge! Many people feel guilty about letting go of gifts and they also feel like they will need certain items someday even if they’ve never used them. A simple way to reduce costly clutter is to say “if I am not using it, then I will give it to someone who will.”